Introduction
Opening Minds through Art (OMA)
Opening Minds through Art (OMA) is an award-winning, evidence-based, intergenerational art-making program for people living with dementia. It was developed at Scripps Gerontology Center, an Ohio Center of Excellence at Miami University, in 2007.
People living with dementia (artists) are paired with volunteers (students, families, caregivers) who are trained to rely on imagination instead of memory and focus on remaining strengths instead of lost skills.
OMA enables people living with dementia to assume new roles as artists and teachers and leave a legacy of beautiful artwork. OMA has been widely replicated.
Reaching older adults through togetherness and creative expression
OMA (oh-mah) is a best-practice program empowering people to make independent, creative choices within a supportive relationship. The innovative methodology brings together artists and non-artists into a community of equals where, as one participant said, “anything is possible.”
celebrate ability & accomplishment
Layered abstract art projects are complex yet easy to do, yielding sophisticated, framable artwork.
Support Growth & Connection
A positive environment encourages authentic one-on-one relationships and a sense of community.
restore sense of autonomy
Structured routine and trained volunteers support independent choice and self-expression, without the threat of failure.
sharpen Cognitive Abilities
Participants are invited to engage in vital social, creative, and interpretive skills, strengthening confidence.
More than an activity
Learn about the OMA design
Proven Excellence
Intergenerational Connections
Research-Backed
Meaningful Art
OMA was developed by gerontologist researcher Dr. Elizabeth Lokon at Scripps Gerontology Center – Miami University-Ohio. Since 2007, OMA has reached Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Spain, and the mainland U.S..
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Bring OMA to your community
We make this program a reality for thousands of older adults by training and supporting OMA Facilitators in best-practice implementation. Art for the Journey is one of four OMA training centers worldwide, with two centers in Indonesia and Canada. The two centers in the U.S. offer training online (ScrippsOMA) and in-person (Art for the Journey).
Gallery of Art Created by Participants
Testimonials
Hear from participants and their families
Jean
OMA Artist, 91
“I feel like I can do anything!”
Ally
OMA Volunteer
“[I love] all of the relationships I’ve built, with my partner and the OMA community. You can truly tell how much each week means to everyone involved and you leave with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Joseph
Son of OMA Artist
“My mother is now the ‘artist’ she was told she never was. OMA showcases the caring and loving nature of the staff and volunteers.”